An exploration of art and functionality...
I aspire to push the boundaries of traditional and conventional bookbinding, and redefine the structure of books in the context of wood, with designs and artwork that inspire creativity. I adore the feel and aesthetic of a wooden book, and enjoy the challenge of using wood as a structural medium, as it requires ingenuity to incorporate elements of flexibility and structural functionality.
I'm inspired by ancient binding methods and traditional techniques, and endeavour to create one-of-a-kind books that are both practical and artistically crafted. Books were once highly prized possessions that were passed through generations, a reflection of the importance placed on the knowledge within. I hope to make books that are as equally treasured.
About me...
Hi, I'm Richard. I'm a book artist that specialises in functional wooden book art. I draw much of my inspiration from science and nature, and experiment with different binding techniques to create novel wooden book structures, with the help of my two cats Casper and Snuffle.
All of my work is my own design and handmade using natural materials, relying on ancient medieval bookbinding techniques and ingenuity to create unique works of art that also serve as practical and effective books. No adhesives are used in the binding of the pages, the wood is reclaimed from the furniture industry and all of the woodwork is carried out using hand tools.
I've always had an obsession with learning how to make things and I cherish books for their ability to impart such knowledge, so it was inevitable that I'd become obsessed with bookbinding at some point in my life.
Most of the books I make are blank sketching journals and notebooks. For me, the books themselves are a canvas for artistic expression. There's something so enchanting and exciting about a blank journal. They represent limitless potential, but it can also be intimidating to start a new journal. I want to make books that inspire creativity in their content and encourage people to use them. Functionality and practicality are always at the forefront of my mind when designing books.
I'm most captivated by Gothic bindings from the early fourteenth century, when books were constructed from solid wooden boards. Such bindings evolved as a result of the use of parchment, which curls and warps with changes in humidity. Heavy wooden boards and metal clasps were needed to keep the text block pressed to prevent distortion. Although the basic structure didn't change, wooden boards were replaced by pasteboard throughout the sixteenth and seventeenth century.
With the invention of the printing press, book production increased exponentially and due to the difficulty of using parchment as a printing medium, paper became the text block of choice. The Gothic structure proved too labour intensive and was replaced by cheaper materials.
I aspire to make books reminiscent of Gothic bindings with a contemporary and inventive twist, using materials that will stand the test of time. The two greatest supporters of the books I make are my two cats. They have taken it upon themselves to personally oversee every project and never tire of sitting on the workbench and watching me work, especially if there's rope or thread involved. Hence the name, Toe Bean Bindery!
Contact me
Thank you for taking an interest in my work, it is very much appreciated. I love making books and mostly produce one-of-a-kind pieces that explore a particular design or idea. However, commissions are considered and I would love to hear from you. Please get in touch to discuss the potential of your request and find out about my waiting list.